Here's the thing that most people miss... Effectiveness in creating/maintaining comfort is weight DISTRIBUTION. Padding is supposed to aid that, but often times either fails or is unneeded. I don't even think about a padded strap until I get up close to 10 pounds. Below is a photo of a $12 Perri's 3.5" strap. I worked the daylights out of it to make it supple and it took on a gorgeous vintage looking texture. But like you I don't like the edges of my straps digging into my neck. A single ply strap allows me to not only cut out a crescent when my neck goes, but the suede texture underneath keeps the bass (or guitar) in place and is great for basses that have a bit of neck dive.
Above I posted a 3" strap that I recently purchased which is great for my 8.5 pound basses. It's great but $30 compared to $12, the cheaper one just needing come physical breaking in.
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